A significant push to transform the parking lots adjacent to Citi Field into a sprawling entertainment and casino complex has gained traction as Queens State Sen. John Liu introduces a bill that could pave the way for billionaire Mets owner Steve Cohen’s ambitious $8 billion Metropolitan Park project. However, opposition from a key legislator raises questions about the proposal’s future.

Liu’s legislation, introduced Sunday, aims to redesignate the roughly 50-acre parking lots surrounding the Mets stadium from parkland to commercial property. The move is a prerequisite for Cohen’s bid to secure a coveted downstate casino license, allowing his partnership with Hard Rock International to move forward with developing a casino, hotel, and entertainment district.

“Because the parking lot is legally parkland, they require state legislation that would allow a gaming facility to be built on that parkland in order to proceed with their application to the state gaming,” Liu explained at the bill’s introduction. according to New York Post.

Cohen has been advocating for a casino near Citi Field since 2023, leveraging the opportunity provided by New York State’s plan to issue three downstate casino licenses. His vision includes not only the casino but also funding for infrastructure improvements in the area, such as the Flushing Skypark project.

Flushing Skypark and Community Investment

A key element of Cohen’s proposal is the development of the Flushing Skypark—a pedestrian and bicycle bridge inspired by Manhattan’s High Line. The structure would span Flushing Creek, connecting downtown Flushing with Willets Point, providing both recreational and transportation benefits.

Liu acknowledged the challenges of executing the Skypark project, describing it as “a tough project from financing to regulatory approvals.” However, he emphasized Cohen and Hard Rock’s commitment, stating that even if the bridge plan falls through, the developers have pledged $100 million toward community improvements in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.

Cohen, affirming his commitment to neighborhood development, stated, “Metropolitan Park is committed to working to make Flushing Skypark a reality.”

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards praised the initiative, calling it a “grand slam for Northwest Queens,” with the potential to generate approximately 23,000 union jobs and stimulate investment in historically underserved areas.

Local Opposition Presents a Challenge

Despite growing support, the plan faces opposition from State Sen. Jessica Ramos, whose district encompasses the proposed casino site. Ramos has remained firmly against the project, stating, “My position has not changed. I cannot support a casino in Corona and am a definitive no on any alienation bill that goes against my neighbors’ wishes.”

Ramos previously declined to advance similar legislation in past sessions, and the state Senate traditionally defers to local legislators on projects within their districts. This could create a significant roadblock for Cohen’s proposal.

The Competitive Casino License Race

Cohen and Hard Rock are among several bidders vying for the limited number of casino licenses in the New York City area. Other contenders include:

  • Wynn NYC-Related Companies’ Hudson Yards project
  • Las Vegas Sands’ proposal at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum
  • SL Green, Caesars Entertainment, and Jay-Z’s Roc Nation’s Times Square plan
  • Stefan Soloviev and Mohegan Sun’s East River project
  • Silverstein Properties’ and Greenwood Gaming’s bid near the Jacob Javits Center

Additionally, two existing racinos—Genting Resorts World at Aqueduct Racetrack and MGM Empire City in Yonkers—are seeking licenses to offer full-scale casino operations.

Next Steps for the Project

Cohen’s project remains contingent on state approval. His team must first secure legislative backing for the rezoning effort before submitting a casino application to local siting boards. Applications are due by June 27, with the New York State Gaming Commission expected to award the three available licenses by the end of December.

While the proposal has the endorsement of several key figures—including Borough President Richards, Assemblywoman Larinda Hooks, and Councilman Francisco Moya—the Senate’s decision remains uncertain. Whether lawmakers will override Ramos’ opposition or adhere to legislative tradition remains to be seen, but the fate of Cohen’s casino project hangs in the balance.